Architecture and Engineering
VPWA is offering opportunities for both individuals and groups to contribute in the fields of Engineering, Planning and Architectural Developmental in Ghana. Several non-profit organisations, including VPWA, are engaged in construction projects in Ghana. We would welcome the technical support and skills of architects and engineers who can volunteer to help implement these projects.
Volunteers need to be trained in this field (as detailed below), plus meet the following requirements...
Volunteer requirements
At least age 18 (no maximum age limit)
Good English
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Strong commitment to values and principles of volunteerism
Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment
Ability to adjust to difficult living and working conditions
Available Positions
Engineers
We are looking for volunteer engineers to assist us with the construction within local communities, for example schools, sanitary facilities etc. You will work within a government department or non-profit organisation where you will contribute to the development of Ghana's infrastructure.
Architects
Are you an architect keen to see how your skills can help a developing country? Get in touch to find out more about how you can use your experience to make a difference.
Planners
Are you an urban planner? Could you use your skills to help manage growth in a developing country? We have an opportunity to place you within a department of Ghana's government work where you can contribute to the development of Ghana.
Interns
If you are a new graduate or current student in the subjects of Engineering, Planning or Architecture VPWA can offer you the chance to gain valuable experience in the field.
Volunteer requirements
At least age 18 (no maximum age limit)
Good English
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Strong commitment to values and principles of volunteerism
Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment
Ability to adjust to difficult living and working conditions
Strong support and advocate for NGOs
Should be able to work independently as well as in teams when there is the need.
Ability to respect and abide by the rules of the placement activity.
Further details
What’s included in the project fees?
Registration Fee (Non Refundable if you choose not to go) – Application Review and processing, administration costs, Visa Support letter, 24/7 emergency support from VPWA, Program marketing costs, Pre-departure information, travel costs to inspect programs, VPWA Education & Health Fund and communication costs with volunteers.
Program Fee – Airport pick up, orientation, Supervision, accommodation and meals(dinner) during volunteer placement period, In-country 24/7 volunteer support and In-country administration costs.
What’s not included?
• Airfare to Ghana
• Visa Fees
• Vaccinations and immunizations (please speak to your local GP)
• Personal insurance(required)
• Personal spending
• In-country travel
Accommodation
Volunteers working on VPWA projects live in Greater Accra and Eastern Region. Please confirm your project location with our coordinator. Volunteers live in shared rooms with bunk beds. Couples are advised to inform us if they wish to share a room in advance. The rooms have comfortable beds with pillows and covers, so there is no need to bring sleeping bags. The volunteer apartment has a kitchen with fridge, as well as toilet and shower facilities.
The following services may also be offered based on availability
Basic TWI language orientation(Special Fees apply)
Mobile phone SIM card number on arrival, so that you can inform family and friend’s your number in Ghana
Certificate of Recognition given to hardworking volunteers, as well as the opportunity to serve as VPWA ambassador in your city, college or community. You need to write a volunteer report covering the period of placement to qualify for the certificate which has the endorsed logo of the United Nations Global Compact.
Health and Safety
Ghana is one of the safest countries in Africa. In the Global Peace Index it is ranked above both the United Kingdom and the US. It provides a perfect introduction for first time volunteers to Africa. It has a democratic electoral process and a stable economy. Our team will ensure your health and safety at all times and you'll have emergency support 24/7.
Flights
Volunteers must arrange their own flights to Accra Airport (ACC). Please be aware that you should communicate your arrival date and time to Volunteer Coordinator. The following airlines fly into Accra:
Alitalia (Lagos, Rome-Fiumicino)
British Airways (London-Heathrow)
Delta Air Lines (New York-JFK)
EgyptAir (Cairo)
Emirates (Abidjan, Dubai)
Ethiopian Airlines (Abidjan, Addis Ababa, Lagos, Lome)
Ghana International Airlines (London-Gatwick, Dusseldorf)
Kenya Airways (Nairobi, Freetown, Monrovia)
KLM (Amsterdam)
Lufthansa (Frankfurt, Lagos)
South African Airways (Johannesburg)
Visa
You must obtain a volunteer visa for travel to Ghana. Once you have secured your place on the project and made a deposit. We will then send you a letter confirming your placement which you can use for your visa application.